Matt Russell begins his work release detention at Arapahoe County Jail

Matt Russell, the Broncos’ director of player personnel, talks with John Elway before the start of a game last year. (John Leyba, The Denver Post)

Matt Russell, the former University of Colorado star linebacker who is now John Elway’s top deputy as Broncos director of player personnel, has begun his 6 1/2-month work release sentence at Arapahoe County Jail.

However, the judge took into account Russell has sincerely attempted to rehabilitate his life as he’s remained sober since his drunk driving incident occurred on July 6, 2013.

Russell was booked last week in Arapahoe County Jail, which is walking distance from the Broncos’ Dove Valley headquarters. His projected release date is Jan. 27, 2015 — 6 1/2 months from his booking date — although there’s a possibility he could be released as soon as late-October.

Russell was at the Broncos’ headquarters Monday as permitted by conditions of his work-release program. As the Broncos’ director of player personnel, Russell oversees the scouting and evaluations of pro and college players.

[1] pleaded guilty in a Summit County courtroom in May to driving under the influence of alcohol: http://www.denverpost.com/broncos/ci_25823565/matt-russell-sentenced-seven-months-dui-case-denver-broncos